Wheat Harvest at Risk: Unexpected Rainfall Worries Punjab Farmers
Unseasonal drizzle and cloudy skies in Punjab have sparked concerns among farmers as wheat harvesting accelerates. Light rain in Doaba and Majha and gusty winds threaten standing crops and harvested grain. Fodder stored outdoors is also at risk. With a bumper harvest expected, farmers are hoping for clear skies to avoid losses during this critical phase.
16 April 2025, Chandigarh: Over the past two days, cloudy skies and light drizzle across several parts of Punjab have raised concerns among farmers as wheat harvesting gains momentum. Rainfall and strong winds at this crucial stage can severely damage standing wheat crops.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), light rain was recorded in Doaba and Majha regions.
Farmers on High Alert
Farmers who have already harvested their crop are being urged to store it in a safe place to prevent spoilage. Gusty winds can flatten the remaining standing crop, while moisture from rain can ruin the grain’s color and quality.
Palwinder Singh, a farmer from Fatehgarh Sahib, said, “Farmers have been under stress for the past two days due to overcast conditions. There was light rain in Nabha on Thursday night, but most areas have been spared heavy showers so far. We’re hoping the weather stays clear.”
Fodder Also Under Threat
An agriculture officer in Moga noted that the unseasonal rain is not only a threat to wheat but can also damage dry fodder stored in the open. Harvesting is still in its early stages in many districts, with only limited arrivals reaching grain markets.
Past Weather Trouble
Earlier on March 30, early morning rainfall with strong winds had flattened wheat crops in Punjab’s Malwa region. Fortunately, since the crop had not fully matured at that point, the damage was limited.
The Punjab government had been expecting a bumper wheat yield this season. The central government has set a procurement target of 12.4 million metric tonnes, backed by a ₹28,894 crore cash credit limit to facilitate smooth procurement.
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Source : Krishak Jagat
